Protective members for an electrical interface assembly

ABSTRACT

A signal interface includes a support structure having a pivotally supported cover and side wings. A latching mechanism is provided to secure the cover to the side wings in both stowed and deployed positions.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

The invention described herein was made in the performance of official duties by employees of the Department of the Navy and may be manufactured, used and licensed by or for the United States Government for any governmental purpose without payment of any royalties thereon.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/696,778, filed Jan. 29, 2010, entitled “PROTECTIVE MEMBERS FOR AN ELECTRICAL INTERFACE ASSEMBLY,” the disclosure of which is expressly incorporated by reference herein.

BACKGROUND AND SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present invention relates generally to structures configured to shield electrical interface panels and, more particularly, to a protective structure including a pivotable cover and cooperating side wings to shield signal entry panels from environmental elements such as water and sand.

It is known to provide mobile communication structures including a plurality of external electrical interfaces, such as signal entry panels. Such signal entry panels are often uncovered and thereby exposed to environmental elements, such as rain, snow, soil, sand, and debris. Such exposure may interfere with the operation of the signal entry panels by disrupting with electrical connections therewith and causing intermittent failures. Furthermore, it is often desired to quickly modify the number and/or types of electrical connections supported by the signal entry panels, often in remote locations.

According to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a signal interface assembly includes a support, a first movable member, and a first hinge coupled to a first portion of the support and a side of the first movable member. At least one latching mechanism is coupled to the first movable member. The signal interface assembly further includes at least one second movable member, and a second hinge coupled to a second portion of the support and the at least one second movable member. The at least one latching mechanism is configured to secure the at least one second movable member to the first movable member in at least two different relative configurations.

Illustratively, the support includes an inner frame and an outer frame positioned in spaced relation to the inner frame and defining a chamber therebetween. An inner electrical interface panel is illustratively supported by the inner frame, and an outer electrical interface panel is illustratively supported by the outer frame. Further illustratively, the first movable member includes a cover having a side flange and being pivotable about a horizontal axis between a stowed position and a deployed position. The at least one second movable member illustratively includes a side wing having a first edge and a second edge and being pivotable about a vertical axis between a stowed position and a deployed position. Illustratively, the first edge of the side wing is positioned adjacent to the side flange of the cover in the stowed position, and the second edge of the side wing is positioned adjacent the side flange in the deployed position.

According to another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure, a method of accessing a signal interface assembly is provided, including the steps of releasing a latching mechanism securing a cover to a first section of a side wing, pivoting the cover upwardly about a horizontal axis, and pivoting the side wing outwardly about a vertical axis. The method further includes the steps of positioning the cover above the side wing, and engaging the latching mechanism to secure the cover to a second section of the side wing.

Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description of the illustrative embodiment exemplifying the best mode of carrying out the invention as presently perceived.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The foregoing aspects and many of the attendant advantages of this invention will become more readily appreciated as the same become better understood by reference to the following detailed description when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a side view of a vehicle including an illustrative electrical interface assembly of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the shelter assembly carried by the vehicle of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the illustrative electrical interface assembly shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a view similar to FIG. 3 of the electrical interface assembly, with the cover shown in phantom in a fully raised position, the side wings shown in a stowed position, and the interface panels removed for clarity;

FIG. 5 is a view similar to FIG. 4, showing the side wings shown in a deployed position;

FIG. 6 is a view similar to FIG. 5, with the cover shown in phantom in a deployed position;

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the electrical interface assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 8 is a front view of the electrical interface assembly of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 9-9 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 8;

FIG. 11 is a front plan view similar to FIG. 8, showing the side wings in a stowed position and the cover in phantom in a fully raised position;

FIG. 12 is a front plan view similar to FIG. 11, showing the side wings in a deployed position;

FIG. 13 is a rear view of the electrical interface assembly of FIG. 7;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 4, with the cover and side wings removed for clarity;

FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 15-15 of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a front exploded perspective view, with a partial cut-away, showing illustrative mounting arrangements for an external electrical interface panel and an internal electrical interface panel;

FIG. 17 is a rear exploded perspective view showing an illustrative mounting arrangement for internal electrical interface panels;

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view similar to FIG. 15, showing the interconnections between external electrical interface panels and internal electrical interface panels;

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of the cover of the electrical interface assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of the cover of FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a front view of the cover of FIG. 19;

FIG. 22 is a side elevational view of the cover of FIG. 19, showing fully raised and deployed positions in phantom;

FIG. 23 is a detail view, with a partial cut-away, of a side wing hinge;

FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a side wing of the electrical interface assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 25 is an end view of the side wing of FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a side elevational view of the side wing of FIG. 24;

FIG. 27 is a detail view of a side wing hinge of FIG. 24;

FIG. 28 is a first side elevational view of a side wing body of FIG. 24;

FIG. 29 is a first end view of the side wing body of FIG. 28;

FIG. 30 is a second side elevational view of the side wing body of FIG. 28;

FIG. 31 is a second end view of the side wing body of FIG. 28, taken along line 31-31 of FIG. 30;

FIG. 32 is a bottom plan view of the side wing body of FIG. 30;

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of a side wing stand-off of FIG. 24;

FIG. 34 is a perspective view of a further side wing of the electrical interface assembly of FIG. 3;

FIG. 35 is a side elevational view, with a partial cut-away, of a further illustrative embodiment electrical interface assembly of the present disclosure;

FIG. 36 is a view similar to FIG. 35, showing the cover in a deployed position; and

FIG. 37 is a side elevational view, with a partial cut-away thereof, of a further illustrative electrical interface assembly of the present disclosure.

Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. Although the drawings represent embodiments of various features and components according to the present disclosure, the drawings are not necessarily to scale and certain features may be exaggerated in order to better illustrate and explain the present disclosure. The exemplification set out herein illustrates embodiments of the invention, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the invention in any manner.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purposes of promoting an understanding of the principles of the invention, reference will now be made to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, which are described below. The embodiments disclosed below are not intended to be exhaustive or limit the invention to the precise form disclosed in the following detailed description. Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilled in the art may utilize their teachings. It will be understood that no limitation of the scope of the invention is thereby intended. The invention includes any alterations and further modifications in the illustrated devices and described methods and further applications of the principles of the invention which would normally occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention relates.

Referring initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, a mobile structure, illustratively a vehicle 10, is shown as including a plurality of electrical interface assemblies 11. The vehicle 10 illustratively includes a plurality of ground engaging members 14 which support 44 a frame 16. While the ground engaging members 14 are shown as comprising tires and wheels, other ground engaging members such as tracks or sleds may be employed. The invention is equally applicable to a wide variety of mobile structures (e.g., water floatation devices) as well as fixed structures (e.g., buildings).

In the illustrative embodiment, a shelter assembly 18 is supported by the frame 16 and includes a pivotally mounted mast assembly 20. The mast assembly 20 may support various antennae for transmitting and receiving radio frequency signals. Additional details of the mast assembly 20 are provided in U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 61/291,694, filed Dec. 31, 2009, entitled “VEHICLE AND MAST MOUNTING ASSEMBLY THEREFOR,” the disclosure of which has been expressly incorporated by reference herein.

Referring further to FIG. 2, the shelter assembly 18 illustratively includes an enclosure 22 having a top wall 24, a front wall 26, side walls 28 and 30, and a rear wall 32. Shelter assembly 18 may also include a work platform 34 including a hoist 36, as well as a plurality of antenna 38 positioned around the enclosure 22. A plurality of electrical interface assemblies 11 may be supported within one or more of the walls 26, 28, 30, and 32 of the enclosure 22.

With reference to FIGS. 3-8, an illustrative electrical interface assembly 11, such as a signal interface assembly 12, is shown removed from the enclosure 22. The signal interface assembly 12 is illustratively configured to provide for simple and efficient electrical communication between an exterior 40 of the enclosure 22 and an interior 42 of the enclosure 22 (FIG. 3). More particularly, the signal interface assembly 12 permits electrical communication between equipment external to the enclosure 22 and equipment received within the enclosure 22. Such electrical communication may be user defined, and illustratively may include telecommunication signals (e.g. radio frequency signals and data transmissions), electrical power transmissions, etc. As indicated above, the signal interface assembly 12 may be positioned within a vertical support structure, such as vertical wall 26, 28, 30, 32 of the enclosure 22.

The signal interface assembly 12 illustratively includes a support 44 having a frame 46 coupled to a housing 48. The frame 46 is illustratively formed of a durable material, such as aluminum, and includes an outer support, such as outer frame or mounting bracket 50, spaced apart from an inner support, such as inner frame or mounting bracket 52. A chamber 54 is defined between the outer frame 50 and the inner frame 52 (FIGS. 4, 5, and 18). The housing 48 is illustratively coupled to the frame 46, for example, by welding, and includes a top wall 56, side walls 58 and 60, and a bottom wall 62. As with the frame 46, the housing 48 is illustratively formed of a durable material, such as aluminum. In certain illustrative embodiments, one or both of outer frame 50 and the inner frame 52 may be formed integral with the housing 48.

The housing 48 illustratively includes an outer end 64 and an inner end 66, wherein the chamber 54 is positioned intermediate the ends 64 and 66. A mounting flange 68 is coupled to the outer end 64 of the housing 48 and includes a plurality of mounting apertures 70. Fasteners, such as rivets 72 (FIG. 1) may extend through the apertures 70 for securing the signal interface assembly 12 to the enclosure 22.

A first movable member, illustratively a cover 76, is pivotably coupled to the support 44 through a first hinge 78. A pair of second movable members, illustratively side wings 80, are pivotably coupled to the support 44 through a plurality of second hinges 82. The first hinge 78 permits pivoting movement of the cover 76 about a horizontal axis 84 (FIG. 3), while the second hinges 82 permit pivoting movement of the side wings 80 about respective vertical axes 86 (FIG. 4). As further detailed herein, the cover 76 pivots upwardly from a stowed position to a raised position (including a deployed position), and the side wings 80 pivot outwardly from stowed positions to deployed positions. A pair of latching mechanisms 90 are illustratively coupled to the cover 76 and are configured to secure together the cover 76 and respective side wings 80 when positioned in the stowed and deployed configurations.

With reference to FIGS. 6, 14, and 15, the outer frame 50 includes an upper frame member 92 coupled to a lower frame member 94. Both the upper frame member 92 and the lower frame member 94 are angled relative to each other and to a horizontal axis 96. As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 15, the upper frame member 92 is angled upwardly from the horizontal axis 96 by angle A (illustratively 66 degrees), while the lower frame member 94 is angled downwardly from the horizontal axis 96 by angle B (illustratively 72 degrees). A deflector 98 is coupled to the lower frame member 94 and is configured to prevent water from collecting at the bottom of the signal interface assembly 12. As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 15, the deflector 98 is angled downwardly from a horizontal axis 100 by an angle C (illustratively 23 degrees) for directing water downwardly and outwardly from the signal interface assembly 12.

With reference to FIG. 14, the upper frame member 92 includes first and second openings 102 and 104 defined by rectangular mounting flanges 106 and 108, respectively. Outer surfaces of the mounting flanges 106 and 108 define respective gasket seats 110 and 112. A plurality of mounting apertures 114 and 116 extend through each mounting flange 106 and 108, respectively.

The lower frame member 94 includes first and second openings 122 and 124 defined by rectangular mounting flanges 126 and 128, respectively. Outer surfaces of mounting flanges 126 and 128 define respective gasket seats 130 and 132. A plurality of mounting apertures 134 and 136 extend through each mounting flange 126 and 128, respectively.

With reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, a plurality of outer or external electrical interface panels, illustratively signal entry panels 140, 142, and 144, are removably coupled to the outer frame 50 by a plurality of releasable couplers or fasteners, illustratively bolts 146 received within the mounting apertures 114, 116, 134, 136 of the respective frame members 92 and 94. An electromagnetic interference (EMI) gasket 148 is received intermediate each signal entry panel 140, 142, 144 and its respective gasket seat 110, 112, 130, 132. The EMI gasket 148 is illustratively formed of an electrically conductive material, such as wire mesh material. In one illustrative embodiment, the EMI gasket 148 comprises a carbon-filled cellular PTFE matrix 150. A pressure sensitive adhesive (PSA) 152 may be supported by a rear surface of the matrix 150.

Each outer signal entry panel 140, 142 and 144 may be customized with a variety of different electrical connectors or ports as desired by the user for providing electrical communication with components external to the shelter assembly 18. As further detailed herein, the outer signal entry panels 140, 142, 144 are modular and may be easily removed and replaced with other electrical interface panels. While illustrative outer signal entry panels 140, 142, and 144 are shown to include certain types, arrangements, and numbers of electrical connectors, it should be appreciated that a wide variety of substitutions may be made therefor.

In the illustrative embodiment, outer signal entry panel 140 each include a telephone HAUC connector 154. HAUC connectors 154 are known and include a housing 156 supporting a receptacle for mating with a telephone, illustratively a handset including a microphone and a speaker (not shown). A cap 158 is removably coupled to the housing 156, while a cable 160 retains the cap 158 to the housing 156 (FIG. 12). The signal entry panel 142 illustratively includes a plurality of telephone push pins 162, and data ports 164 and 166. Data ports 164 illustratively comprise Tactical Digital Information Link (TADIL) connectors, such as TADIL-J 1553 bayonet couplings. Data ports 166 illustratively comprise female cable connectors, such as category 5 (CAT-5e) cable connectors. The outer signal entry panel 144 illustratively includes a plurality of data ports 168 for coupling to fiber optic cables. Illustratively, the data ports 168 comprise Tactical Fiber Optic Cable Assembly (TFOCA-11) connectors including a housing 170 and threadably coupled protective caps 172.

With reference to FIGS. 13, 16, and 17, the inner frame 52 illustratively includes an upper frame member 174 and a lower frame member 176 disposed within a common substantially vertical plane. The upper frame member 174 includes first and second openings 180 and 182 defined by rectangular mounting flanges 184 and 186, respectively. Outer surfaces of the mounting flanges 184 and 186 define respective gasket seats 188 and 190. A plurality of mounting apertures 192 and 194 extend through each mounting flange 184 and 186, respectively. The lower frame member 176 includes first and second openings 198 and 200 defined by rectangular mounting flanges 202 and 204, respectively. Outer surfaces of the mounting flanges 202 and 204 define respective gasket seats 206 and 208. A plurality of mounting apertures 210 and 212 extend through each mounting flange 202 and 204, respectively.

A plurality of inner or internal electrical interface panels, illustratively signal entry panels 214, 216, and 218, are removably coupled to the inner frame 52 by a plurality of releasable couplers or fasteners, illustratively bolts 220 received within the mounting apertures 192, 194, 210, 212 of respective frame members 174 and 176. An EMI gasket 222 is received intermediate each signal entry panel 214, 216, 218 and its respective gasket seat 188, 190, 206, 208. The EMI gaskets 222 are illustratively of a similar construction as EMI gaskets 148 detailed above.

Each inner signal entry panel 214, 216, 218 may be customized with a variety of different electrical connectors or ports as desired by the user for providing electrical communication with components internal to the shelter assembly 18. As further detailed herein, the panels 214, 216, 218 are modular and may be easily removed and replaced with other electrical interface panels as desired. While illustrative inner signal entry panels 214, 216, and 218 are shown to include certain types, arrangements, and numbers of electrical connectors, it should be appreciated that a wide variety of substitutions may be made therefor.

In the illustrative embodiment, inner signal entry panels 214 each include a plurality of telephone connectors, illustratively RJ-45 modular connectors 224. The signal entry panel 216 illustratively includes a plurality of telephone push pins 226 and data ports 228 and 230. Data ports 228 illustratively comprise TADIL connectors, such as TADIL-J 1553 bayonet couplings. Data ports 230 illustratively comprise female cable connectors, such as category 5 (CAT-5e) cable connectors. The signal entry panel 218 illustratively includes fiber optic couplings 232, such as SC MMSM connectors. A ground stud 234 may also be supported by the inner frame 52.

Electrical wires or cables 236, 238, 240, 242 illustratively connect the outer signal entry panels 140, 142, 144 with the inner signal entry panels 214, 216, 218, respectively. More particularly, the cables 236, 238, 240, 242 extend between the outer frame 50 and the inner frame 52 through the chamber 54 of the support 44 as shown in FIG. 18. The HAUC connectors 154 of outer signal entry panel 140 are illustratively coupled to the modular connectors 224 of panel 214 by cables 236. The push pins 162 of the outer signal entry panel 142 are illustratively coupled to the push pins 226 of the inner signal entry panel 216 by cables 238. The data ports 164 and 166 of the outer signal entry panel 142 are coupled to the data ports 228 and 230 of panel 216 by cables 240 and 242, respectively. Similarly, the ports 168 of the outer signal entry panel 144 are illustratively coupled to the couplings 232 of the internal signal entry panel 218 through cables (not shown). As desired, lighting arrestors and filters (not shown) may be electrically coupled to the cables 236, 238, 240, 242 and received within the chamber 54.

With reference to FIGS. 19-22, the cover 76 is pivotably coupled to the top wall 56 of the housing 48 by a first hinge 78. The cover 76 illustratively includes a substantially planar body 244 having an outer surface 245 extending between first and second sides 246 and 247 and between opposing upper and lower ends 248 and 249. While the body 244 of the cover 76 may be formed in a wide variety of sizes, the illustrative embodiment has a width cw of approximately 13 inches, and a height ch of approximately 20 inches (FIG. 21). In one illustrative embodiment, the cover 76 is formed of 0.090 inch thick aluminum sheet. The first hinge 78 is coupled to the body 244 proximate the upper end 248, while the latching mechanisms 90 are secured to the body 244 proximate the lower end 249 near opposing sides 246 and 247. In the illustrative embodiment as shown in FIG. 22, a peripheral lip or flange 250 extends inwardly from the body 244 by a distance cf (illustratively about 0.50 inches).

With reference to FIGS. 20 and 23, the first hinge 78 illustratively includes a plurality of spaced apart connecting members 252. Each connecting member 252 illustratively includes a detent assembly 254 to releasably secure the cover 76 in one of a plurality of angular positions. More particularly, the cover 76 in FIG. 22 is shown in solid in a stowed position substantially vertical (i.e., parallel with the vertical wall 26). The cover 76 may be pivoted upwardly by angle α (illustratively about 90 degrees) to a fully raised position, and by angle β (illustratively about 45 degrees) to an intermediate deployed position.

As shown in FIG. 23, each connecting member 252 illustratively includes a first pivot body 256 and a second pivot body 258 operably coupled together for pivoting movement by a pivot pin 260. Torsion springs 261 may be provided to angularly bias the second pivot body 258 away from the first pivot body 256. As such, the springs 261 assist the user in raising the cover 76.

The pivot pin 260 of each connecting member 252 illustratively includes a first member 262 having a head 264 at a first end, and a cavity 266 at an opposing second end. A second member 268 is concentrically received within the cavity 266 of the first member 262. More particularly, a portion 270 adjacent the first end of the second member 268 is fixed within the cavity 266, and a head 272 is positioned adjacent the second end. The first and second members 262 and 268 are secured together such that the first and second pivot bodies 256 and 258 are captured between the heads 264 and 272.

The detent assembly 254 illustratively includes spaced apart first and second sliders 273 and 274 configured to cooperate with recesses or detents 276 and 278, respectively, formed within the pivot body 256. More particularly, each slider 273, 274 is configured to be releasably received within a cooperating detent 276, 278 in each of the angular positions shown in FIG. 22. The sliders 273 and 274 illustratively comprise sleeves received over the pivot pin 260 and supported for sliding movement along the longitudinal axis 280 of the pin 260. More particularly, a spring 282 is configured to bias the sliders 273 and 274 in opposite directions along the longitudinal axis 280 and into selected ones of the detents 276 and 278. When the sliders 273 and 274 are biased within the detents 276 and 278, the cover 76 is releasably secured within one of the angular positions shown in FIG. 22.

As shown in FIG. 19, a protective flap or shield 284 may extend over the first hinge 78 to prevent environmental elements (e.g., rain, sand and dirt) from passing through gaps in the hinge 78 and to the outer signal entry panel 140, 142 and 144. More particularly, the protective shield 284 illustratively comprises a flexible sheet having a first or upper end 286 secured to the first hinge 78 by fasteners, such as screws, and a second or lower end 288 free to move relative to the cover 76. Illustratively, the protective shield 284 is formed of a durable and flexible material, such as an elastomeric sheet.

With reference to FIGS. 24-34, each side wing 80 is pivotably coupled by a plurality of second hinges 82 to a spacer or standoff 290. In turn, each standoff 290 is secured to a side wall 58, 60 of the housing 48 (FIG. 5). Each standoff 290 may be formed of an elastomeric body 292 secured to the side wall 58, 60 by a plurality of fasteners, such as screws 294. The standoffs 290 provide clearance from the sidewalls 58 and 60 to accommodate pivoting movement of the side wings 80.

Each side wing 80 illustratively includes a substantially planar body 296 extending between a first side 298 and a second side 300. While the body 296 of each side wing 80 may be formed from a wide variety of rigid, durable materials, in the illustrative embodiment the body 296 is formed of 0.125 inch thick aluminum sheet. The first side 298 includes a substantially vertical edge 302, while the second side 300 illustratively includes an angled edge 304. The second side 300 illustratively includes an inwardly extending lip or flange 306. As shown in the illustrative embodiment of FIG. 31, the flange 306 extends inwardly from the body 296 by a distance sf (illustratively about 0.88 inches).

With reference to FIGS. 28 and 30, the body 296 of each side wing 80 has a substantially triangular shape with an apex 308 at an upper end 310 and a base 312 at a lower end 314. As shown in FIG. 30, the vertical edge 302 is illustratively angled relative to the angled edge 304 by approximately 17 degrees. The second hinges 82 are coupled to the body 296 proximate the first side 298 and provide for pivoting movement of the wings 80 from the stowed position of FIGS. 8 and 9 to the deployed position of FIGS. 6 and 10. The base 312 includes a cut-out or notch 316 defining opposing first and second sections of the body 296, illustratively first and second tabs 318 and 320. The notch 316 is configured to provide clearance for a portion of the latching mechanism 90 when the cover 76 and the side wings 80 are in their stowed positions. The base 312 of the body 296 illustratively has a width sw of approximately 5.4 inches (FIG. 28), while the vertical edge 302 illustratively has a height sh of approximately 16 inches (FIG. 30). The angled edge 304 illustratively has a length sl of approximately 16.02 inches (FIG. 31). Additional illustrative dimensions of the tabs 318 and 320 defining the notch 316 are shown in FIG. 30.

With reference to FIG. 27, each of the plurality of second hinges 82 illustratively includes a first pivot body 322 operably coupled to a second pivot body 324 by a pivot pin 326 to provide pivoting movement therebetween. The first pivot body 322 is secured to the standoff 290 while the second pivot body 324 is secured to the respective side wing 80. A torsion spring 328 is configured to angularly bias about the pivot pin 326 the second pivot body 324 away from the first pivot body 322. As such, the torsion spring 328 biases the respective side wings 80 outwardly about vertical axis 86 (FIG. 26) from the stowed position (FIG. 4) to the deployed position (FIG. 6).

As explained above, the latching mechanisms 90 are configured to secure together the cover 76 and the side wings 80 in a plurality of configurations. More particularly, in the illustrative embodiment, the latching mechanisms 90 are configured to secure together the cover 76 and the side wings 80 in relative positions in either of their respective stowed or deployed configurations.

FIGS. 8 and 9 show locked and unlocked positions (in solid and hidden lines, respectively) of latching mechanism 90 when the cover 76 and side wings 80 are in their stowed configurations. In the stowed configurations, the cover 76 and the side wings 80 extend substantially parallel to each other and to the vertical wall 26 to define a substantially flush outer surface 323 (FIG. 1). As further shown in the stowed configurations of FIGS. 8 and 9, the first side 298 of each side wing 80 is positioned adjacent the flange 250 at respective sides 246 and 247 of the cover 76. As detailed in FIG. 9, the latching mechanisms 90 secure the first tabs 318 of each side wing 80 to the cover 76. The standoff 290 may serve as a buffer or stop to contact the flange 250 at respective sides 246 and 247 of the cover 76.

FIGS. 6 and 10 show locked and unlocked positions (in solid and hidden lines, respectively) of the cover 76 and the side wings 80 are in their deployed configurations. In the deployed configurations, the cover 76 is angled upwardly from its vertical position by angle β of about 45 degrees from its position of FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 6, the side wings 80 are angled outwardly from their folded positions of FIG. 8 by about 90 degrees. As shown in the deployed configurations of FIGS. 6 and 10, the second side 300 of each side wing 80 is positioned adjacent the flange 250 at the respective sides 246 and 247 of the cover 76. As detailed in FIG. 10, the latching mechanisms 90 secure the flange 250 at the second side tabs 320 of each side wing 80 to the cover 76.

With further reference to FIGS. 6-10, each latching mechanism 90 illustratively includes a handle 325 received within a recess 327 formed in the outer surface 245 of the cover 76. A lever arm 329 is coupled to the handle 325 and is configured to pivot about a pivot pin 330. An adjustable clamp 332 is supported at a first end of the lever arm 329, while the handle 325 is coupled to the second end of the lever arm 329. The clamp 332 includes a threaded stud 334 cooperating with a nut 336 for adjusting the position of a resilient bearing member 338. The latching mechanism 90 defines an over-center clamp by the handle 325 and the lever arm 329 being positioned on opposite sides of the pivot pin 330.

The latching mechanism 90 is in a locked or clamped position when the handle 325 is substantially parallel to the outer surface 245 of the cover 76 (shown in solid lines in FIGS. 9 and 10). FIG. 9 shows the stowed configuration where the clamp 332 in the lock position secures the first tab 318 of the side wing 80 to the body 244 of the cover 76. FIG. 10 shows the deployed configuration where the clamp 332 in the locked position secures the second tab 320 of the side wing 80 to the body 244 of the cover 76. By the user inserting a finger within an opening 340 adjacent to the handle 325, the handle 325 may be lifted or pulled outwardly away from the cover 76 such that the handle 325 and the lever arm 329 are pivoted about pivot pin 330 (to the position shown in hidden lines in FIGS. 9 and 10). Once the cover 76 and cooperating side wings 80 are positioned as desired (i.e., stowed or deployed), the handle 325 may be pushed back into the recess 327 and flush with the outer surface 245 of the cover 76. The lever arm 329 rotates such that the clamp 332 secures the cover 76 to the respective side wing 80.

An illustrative method of accessing an interface panel of signal interface assembly 12 comprises the steps of releasing the latching mechanisms 90 securing cover 76 to the side wings 80 (FIGS. 8 and 9) when in the stowed configuration. In the stowed configuration, the cover 76 extends substantially parallel to the side wings 80 to provide a flush outer surface to the support 44. To release the latching mechanisms 90, the handles 325 are pivoted outwardly from the recesses 327 of cover 76. In response, the lever arms 329 unclamp the cover 76 from the first tabs 318 of the side wings 80. Next, the cover 76 is pivoted upwardly about horizontal axis 100, illustratively by angle α to the fully raised position shown in FIG. 22. The detent assemblies 254 are configured to releasably hold the cover 76 in this position.

The side wings are 80 are then pivoted outwardly about vertical axis 86 into the deployed position shown in FIG. 6. The step of pivoting the side wings 80 outwardly includes biasing the side wings 80 through a spring 282. The cover 76 is then lowered (pulling down will release the detent assemblies 254) to the deployed position represented by angle β in FIG. 22. In the deployed configuration, the cover 76 extends substantially perpendicular to the side wings 80 and at an acute angle relative to vertical. In this position, the flange 250 of the cover 76 receives the second tab 320 of each side wing 80 in a nesting arrangement. Next, the latching mechanisms 90 are engaged to secure the cover 76 to the side wings 80. More particularly, the handles 325 are pivoted inwardly into the recesses 327 of the cover 76. In response, the lever arms 329 clamp the cover 76 to the second tab 320 of the side wings 80.

A method of installing a signal entry panel comprises the steps of providing support 44, and coupling signal entry panel 140, 142, 144, 214, 216, 218 to the support 44. The support 44 illustratively includes outer frame 50 and inner frame 52. EMI gasket 148 is positioned adjacent the outer frame 50, and the outer signal entry panel 140, 142, 144 is positioned adjacent the outer frame 50 with the EMI gasket 148 being intermediate the panel 140, 142, 144, and the outer frame 50. Bolts 146 are threadably secured within the outer frame 50 to retain the outer signal entry panel 140, 142, 144 in position.

Cables are illustratively used to electrically couple the outer signal entry panel 140, 142, 144, to the respective inner signal entry panel 214, 216, 218. EMI gasket 222 is positioned against inner frame 52 and the inner signal entry panel 214, 216, 218 is then retained in position through bolts 220 threadably secured within the inner frame 52.

As may be appreciated, the mounting arrangements of the outer and inner signal entry panels 140, 142, 144, 214, 216, 218 facilitate replacement by substitute panels. Moreover, bolts 146, 220 permit removal and replacement of signal entry panels 140, 142, 144, 214, 216, 218 on the outer frame 50 and the inner frame 52, respectively. Once installation is complete, the cover 76 and side wings 80 may be operated as detailed herein to protect the outer signal entry panels 140, 142, 144 from environmental elements.

As shown in FIGS. 35 and 36, a further illustrative signal interface assembly 412 includes many similar features to the embodiments detailed above. As such, similar elements will be identified with like reference numbers. The signal interface assembly 412 illustratively includes flexible side shields 414 configured to extend adjacent, and in laterally spaced relation to, the side wings 80. In certain embodiments, the flexible side shields 414 may replace the side wings 80. The side shields 414 further assist in preventing environmental elements, such as water, sand, and debris, from contacting the signal entry panels 214. The side shields 414 may each comprise an inflatable bladder 416 fluidly coupled to a fluid supply 418, such as a pneumatic pump or storage cannister, through a fluid supply line 420. A first end of the bladder 416 illustratively includes a mounting strip 422 secured to the housing, while a second end of the bladder 416 illustratively includes a magnetic coupler 424 for releasable coupling to an inner surface of the cover 76.

FIG. 35 shows the bladder 416 in a deflated state and disconnected from the cover 76, while FIG. 36 shows the bladder 416 inflated and coupled to the cover 76. The fluid supply 418 may be activated for inflating the bladder 416 through a user interface, such as a user controlled switch, or through a sensor, such as a limit switch 426 configured to detect when the cover 76 is raised.

FIG. 37 shows a further illustrative signal interface assembly 512 having many similar features to the embodiments detailed above. As such, similar elements will be identified with like reference numbers. As with the signal interface assembly 412, the signal interface assembly 512 includes flexible side shields 514 configured to extend adjacent, and in laterally spaced relation to, the side wings 80. In certain embodiments, the flexible side shields 514 may replace the side wings 80. The side shields 514 may each comprise a flexible curtain 516 having a first end secured to the housing 48, and a second end coupled to the cover 76.

Each curtain 516 illustratively includes a plurality of foldable panels 518 supported between braces 520. The panels 518 are configured to collapse or fold in an accordion fashion. A releasable coupler, such as a hook and look fastener 522, illustratively secures the second end of the flexible curtain 516 to the cover 76. More particularly, a hook portion 524 may be secured to the cover 76, and a mating loop portion 526 may be secured to the curtain 516.

A retractor 528 is illustratively configured to fold the curtain 516. Retractor 528 may include a cord 530 supported on a rotatable spool 532. As the cord 530 is wound onto the spool 532, the second end of the curtain 516 is retracted and the curtain 516 folds or retracts inwardly. A drive mechanism (not shown) may be operably coupled to the spool 532 for imparting rotation thereof.

While this invention has been described as having an exemplary design, the present invention may be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this invention pertains. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A signal interface assembly comprising: a support, wherein the support includes an inner frame and an outer frame positioned in spaced relation to the inner frame and defining a chamber therebetween, wherein the outer frame further includes a deflector operably coupled below the lower frame member and angled relative thereto; an inner electrical interface panel supported by the inner frame, wherein said inner electrical interface panel is formed with a first plurality of apertures and a first plurality of flange areas surrounding each of said first plurality of apertures; an outer electrical interface panel supported by the outer frame, wherein the outer frame includes an upper frame member coupled to a lower frame member, the upper frame member angled relative to the lower frame member, wherein said upper and lower frame members are further formed with a second plurality of apertures and a second plurality of flange areas surrounding said second plurality of apertures; an electromagnetic interference gasket received intermediate the outer electrical interface panel and the outer frame; a first plurality of electrical interface modular panels comprising a plurality of inner signal entry panels, each said first plurality of electrical interface modular panels are removably coupled to respective first flange areas by a first plurality of fasteners or releasable couplers, said inner signal entry panels further comprising a plurality of a first group of electrical signal connectors or ports; a second plurality of electrical interface modular panels comprising outer signal entry panels removably and respectively coupled to said second plurality of flange areas by a plurality of second fasteners or releasable couplers, said outer signal entry panels comprising a second group of electrical signal connectors or ports that are different than said first group of electrical signal connectors or ports, said outer signal entry panels are further adapted to be sealed against passage of water past said outer signal entry panels into said chamber; a plurality of electrical conductors connecting each respective electrical signal connectors or ports with a corresponding electrical signal connector or port in said second group of electrical signal connectors or ports; a first movable member, wherein the first movable member comprises a cover and being rotatably movable between a first position and a second position; a first hinge coupled to a first portion of said support and a side area of said first movable member, said first hinge further comprises a structure that includes a spring or lever detent structure which releasably locks said first hinge assembly in a plurality of releasable locking positions; at least one latching mechanism coupled to said first movable member; at least one second movable member; a second hinge coupled to a second portion of said support and to said at least one second movable member, said second hinge further comprise a spring or lever to respectively bias the at least one second movable member outwardly from a stowed position to a deployed position; and a flexible upper shield extending over the first hinge; wherein said second movable member comprises a first edge and a second edge of said second moveable member substantially having a triangular relationship between them, wherein said second edge is formed with a lip or flange and a cut-out notch, wherein said cut-out notch provides clearance for said latching mechanism to couple said first and second members in said stowed position by engaging an edge of said lip or flange defined by said notch or cut-out; wherein said at least one latching mechanism is configured to adjustably secure said at least one second movable member to said first moveable member in at least two different relative configurations comprising a first and second configuration, wherein said first moveable member comprises a first side, wherein said first side faces away from said support in said first or second configurations, said at least one latching mechanism comprises a section configured to partially extend away from said first side of said first moveable member when in said first configuration, said at least one latching mechanism is further configured to move so it is substantially flush with said first side in said second configuration.
 2. The signal interface assembly of claim 1, wherein said first movable member is substantially planar, and said second movable member is substantially planar.
 3. The signal interface assembly of claim 2, further comprising a releasable coupler securing the outer electrical interface panel to the outer frame.
 4. The signal interface assembly of claim 1, wherein the support includes a mounting flange configured to be secured to a vertical support surface.
 5. The signal interface assembly of claim 1, further comprising a flexible side shield extending between the support structure and the second movable member.
 6. The signal interface assembly of claim 5, further comprising a fluid supply, wherein the flexible side shield includes an air bladder fluid coupled to the fluid supply.
 7. The signal interface assembly of claim 5, wherein the flexible shield includes a foldable curtain.
 8. The signal interface assembly of claim 7, further comprising a retractor operably coupled to the foldable curtain.
 9. The signal interface assembly of claim 1, wherein the first movable member extends substantially parallel to the second moveable member in said stowed position to provide a flush outer surface to the support.
 10. The signal interface assembly of claim 9, wherein the first movable member extends at an acute angle relative to the support in the deployed position.
 11. The signal interface assembly of claim 1, wherein the first hinge includes the detents, the detents including a spring biased pin.
 12. The signal interface assembly of claim 1, further comprising a standoff between the support and the second hinge defining a space for receiving a portion of the second movable member in a deployed position.
 13. The signal interface assembly of claim 1, wherein the support includes a mounting flange configured to be secured to a vertical support surface.
 14. An electrical interface assembly comprising: a support including an outer frame, wherein the outer frame includes an upper frame member coupled to a lower frame member, the upper frame member angled relative to the lower frame member, wherein said upper and lower frame members are further formed with a first plurality of apertures and a first plurality of flange areas surrounding said first plurality of apertures; a first plurality of electrical interface panels supported by the outer frame comprising signal entry panels removably and respectively coupled to said first plurality of flange areas by a plurality of first fasteners or releasable couplers, said signal entry panels further comprising a first group of electrical signal connectors or ports; a cover operably coupled to the support for pivoting movement about a horizontal axis between a stowed position and a deployed position; a first side wing operably coupled to the support for pivoting movement about a first vertical axis between a stowed position and a deployed position; and a second side wing operably coupled to the support for pivoting movement about a second vertical axis between a stowed position and a deployed position; a first hinge coupled to the cover and to the support at an upper end of the cover; a second hinge coupled to the first side wing and the support at a side of the first side wing; and a flexible upper shield extending over the first hinge; wherein said first and second side wings each comprises a first edge and a second edge of said side wings and further substantially having a triangular relationship between them, wherein said second edge is formed with a lip or flange and a cut-out notch, wherein said cut-out notch provides clearance for said latching mechanism to couple said first and second members in said stowed position by engaging an edge of said lip or flange defined by said notch or cut-out.
 15. A signal interface assembly comprising: a support structure comprising a first and second side defining two sides of a chamber defined therewithin, said first side formed with a first plurality of modular apertures and said second side formed with a second plurality of apertures, said first and second plurality of apertures are surrounded by a plurality of first and second flange areas, wherein said first side is formed with a first section and a second section, said first and second section are angled with respect to each other; a first and second plurality of modular electrical signal panels, wherein said first plurality of modular electrical signal panels are each coupled to said first flange areas associated with each of a respective one of said first apertures, said second plurality of modular electrical signal panels are each coupled to said second flange areas associated with each of a respective one of said second apertures, said first plurality of modular electrical signal panels further comprise a first plurality of electrical signal connectors, said second plurality of modular electrical signal panels further comprise a second plurality of electrical signal connectors, said first and second plurality of electrical signal connectors are different from each other; a first movable member, wherein the first movable member comprises a cover and being rotatably movable between a first position and a second position; a first hinge coupled to a first portion of said support and an edge portion of said first movable member, said first hinge further comprises a structure that includes a spring or lever detent structure which releasably locks said first hinge assembly in a plurality of releasable locking positions; at least one latching mechanism coupled to said first movable member; at least one second movable member; a second hinge coupled to a second portion of said support and to said at least one second movable member, said second hinge further comprise a spring or lever to respectively bias the at least one second movable member outwardly from a stowed position to a deployed position; and a flexible upper shield extending over the first hinge; a flexible side shield extending between the support structure and the second movable member, wherein the flexible side shield further includes a foldable curtain, said foldable curtain further comprising a retractor operably coupled to the foldable curtain; a fluid supply, wherein the flexible side shield comprises an inflatable portion adapted to extend or retract upon fluid or air connection to said fluid supply; wherein said second movable member comprises a first edge and a second edge of said second moveable member substantially having a triangular relationship between them, wherein said second edge is formed with a lip or flange and a cut-out notch, wherein said cut-out notch provides clearance for said latching mechanism to couple said first and second members in said stowed position by engaging an edge of said lip or flange defined by said notch or cut-out; wherein said at least one latching mechanism is configured to secure said at least one second movable member to said first moveable member in at least two different relative configurations, wherein said at least first latching mechanism is flush with said first moveable member in a latched configuration and has a latch portion extending away from said moveable member in an unlatched configuration.
 16. The signal interface assembly of claim 15, wherein said first movable member is substantially planar, and said second movable member is substantially planar.
 17. The signal interface assembly of claim 15, wherein the further includes a water or contaminant deflector operably coupled on one side to a third section of said support and on an opposing side to an edge of said first side and angled relative thereto, wherein said third section of said support is on an opposing side of said support from said first section.
 18. The signal interface assembly of claim 15, wherein the first movable member extends substantially parallel to the second moveable member in said stowed position to provide a flush outer surface to the support.
 19. The signal interface assembly of claim 18, wherein the first movable member extends at an acute angle relative to the support in the deployed position.
 20. The signal interface assembly of claim 15, wherein the first hinge includes the detents, the detents including a spring biased pin.
 21. The signal interface assembly of claim 15, further comprising a standoff between the support and the second hinge defining a space for receiving a portion of the second movable member in a deployed position. 